Re: Batteries ?
Reply #7 –
Blue top Optima batteries are marine deep cycle/start and will not provide the same deep cycle service as "real" deep cycle batteries.
The number of times that a battery can be discharged/recharged depends on the type (wet, gel, AGM), thickness of plates, and the depth of discharge.
Most cycles by type: Gel is most (best for deep cycle), AGM next, Wet (golf cart) least.
Gel batteries require special handling because they must not be charged above 14.2 volts, while wet golf carts batteries are fine chrging to 14.6 volts which is the standard finish voltage for automobiles. Gels charged to 14.6 will overheat, bulge the case, and out gas through safety pressure vents (so battery does not explode).
In the past, Gel batteries were the cycle king by far, providing twice the number of cycles during lifetime as wet cells, and providing 50% more cycles than AGM.
Today, manufacturers of AGM batteries have improved the number of lifetime cycles so they are close to Gel batteries without the charge voltage sensitivity.
There is no magic bullit, and comparing batteries is shades of gray.
Wet golf cart batteries will provide good service with the least money invested initially, but require the most ongoing maintenance. The cost per cycle is higher with these batteries than with Gel Cells.
I have both Gel and AGM batteries. My one remaining Gel 8D battery still provides about 160 amp hours after seven years of 250 cycles per year (to 80% or 90%).
Depth of charge effect on life cycles:
The deeper the discharge, the less life cycles available. However, if you are only cycling to 90%, you are carrying a lot of weight in batteries. I recommend cycling to 80% most of the time and sometimes to 60%.
I have reduced the 12 volt amperage use in my U320 by reducing phantom loads and installing LED lights.
This is another topic
Ask me about this in Quartzsite, I will show you what i have done.
FWIT
Wyatt
Topic: Batteries ?